The star is keen to continue helping Tottenham avoid relegation from the Premier League this season.
Wednesday night’s Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid highlighted several positives for Tottenham and Igor Tudor. The Lilywhites went toe-to-toe with one of Europe’s most formidable sides and even managed to secure a 3-2 victory. Although it was not enough for the North Londoners to advance to the next round, a number of players showcased their quality on the biggest stage, with Mathys Tel standing out as one of the most impressive performers.
The Frenchman was a constant threat down the left flank, linking up effectively with Xavi Simons and Randal Kolo Muani. While he was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet, he consistently found himself in promising positions, either creating chances or getting on the end of attacking moves. The 20-year-old made the most of his rare Champions League opportunity, earning warm applause from the fans for his lively and impactful display, earning a 7/10 rating.
Given his performance against top-level opposition, it raises questions as to why Thomas Frank was reluctant to give the youngster a consistent run of games at N17. The Danish manager even went as far as omitting the talented attacker from the Champions League squad list for the first half of the campaign, casting doubt over whether Tel featured in his long-term plans. The lack of regular minutes earlier in the season undoubtedly hindered the Frenchman’s development.
Igor Tudor is helping Mathys Tel prove his worth at Tottenham
It is fair to assume that Mathys Tel would have felt relieved when Spurs parted ways with Thomas Frank last month. He struggled for consistent opportunities and often found himself drifting in and out of the squad. However, the situation has changed significantly under Igor Tudor. Since the Croatian took charge, Tel has been handed a more prominent role and the platform to prove himself at the highest level.
Mathys Tel has since acknowledged the confidence Igor Tudor has shown in him during their short time together at Hotspur Way. Speaking to Hayters TV, Tel said,
“I can feel that he (Tudor) has put the confidence that was needed before, so you can see on the pitch I have got more confidence. I can create situations. So, yes, he gave me some things that I didn’t have before. I would say we are together. We are more and more together. We are talking because maybe before we didn’t speak enough but now with the situation, we talk more and we are more about the details. So, you know, in football, details make the difference and I’m very happy about this difference.”
Mathys Tel is now playing with renewed confidence and freedom, largely due to Igor Tudor’s faith in his ability. The two have developed a strong understanding, with Tudor placing the youngster in positions that allow him to further refine his game. This trust has made a noticeable difference, as the 20-year-old is now enjoying his football and expressing himself more effectively for the Lilywhites.
Under Thomas Frank, the Frenchman had to fight hard for recognition and consistent opportunities. At one stage, Tel even considered leaving Spurs midway through the season after it became clear that he was not a key part of Frank’s plans. However, his perseverance and determination are now paying off, as he begins to showcase his true potential for the Lilywhites under Igor Tudor’s guidance.